The Teeth of Faith

UV 992/10,000 The Teeth of Faith Your teeth are like a flock of sheep just shorn, coming up from the washing. Each has its twin; not one of them is alone. Song of Songs 4 v 2 The Lord sees the body of believers as if they are a flock of sheep just shorn, gleaming white as they have been washed in His blood and in the water of His Word. He himself set the example of one who endured suffering without a word of protest or resistance or defence. We are now expected to be as fixed and focussed on Him as our teeth are set in the gums. Just as no tooth stands alone but are set in matching pairs on either side of the jaw, believers are to not to stand alone and isolated but connected with at least one co-worker or disciple of Christ. Just as the teeth are closely packed and work in unison, we are to work with unity of spirit and purpose. There are different kinds of believers just as there are different kinds of teeth- canine, molar, pre-molar and incisive teeth. But just as every day we bite into a variety of food and just as sheep graze all day in the pasture, we need to bite and mull over often on the Word of God and not just confine it to one part of the morning like during the quiet time. Just as sheep whose coat is washed is kept clean and neat and just as teeth are brushed to be shining white, we need to maintain a lifestyle of righteousness, a testimony that will not put the Lord to shame but will be bright and attractive. Just as the health of the teeth depends on having a healthy root and enough continuous and consistent blood supply and nourishment through the veins from the root of the teeth, our faith, hope and love should always be nourished by the supply of His grace. Just as teeth that are over sensitive are a sign of bad dental health, we should not be bitter or angry with anyone for too long. Just as when something goes wrong with any of our teeth, we visit a dentist for treatment, we need to go to the Counsellor , the Holy Spirit when we hit a lean patch in our faith life. Another metaphor that comes to mind is that faith without good character and good works is like a set of toothless gums. Prateep V Philip